[Newton, NJ] Susan M. Zellman, Sussex County Freeholder Deputy Director, has been awarded by LeadingAge New Jersey (formerly the New Jersey Association of Homes and Services for the Aging - NJAHSA) their prestigious Facility Trustee of the Year Award. This award recognizes a Trustee of a LeadingAge New Jersey member facility for his/her exemplary leadership, governance and stewardship related to services provided to seniors throughout Sussex County.

Zellman has served as Freeholder Director and Deputy Director and is Freeholder Liaison to the Sussex County Department of Human Services. She professionally serves as the Executive Director to the Housing Partnership, a United Way Organization. As an elected official, Ms. Zellman not only supports, advocates, plans and encourages high quality services for all seniors in Sussex County; she participates, collaborates and partners with providers, staff and, most importantly, senior citizens in need of varied services.

"I am very honored to receive this prestigious award, particularly for being involved in an area that is so important to our citizens and our County," said Zellman.

LeadingAge New Jersey is the statewide association of not-for-profit senior care organizations and is dedicated to advancing quality aging services in New Jersey through advocacy, education and fellowship. They advance policies, promote practices and conduct research that supports, enables and empowers people to live fully as they age.

Stephen Gruchacz, Administrator for the Sussex County Department of Human Services stated, "Susan Zellman is deserving of this leadership achievement as she has always supported high quality care for the residents of the award winning Homestead (Sussex County's 102-bed nursing and rehabilitation facility) and all seniors throughout Sussex County. Additionally, through her leadership, Sussex County has a strong network of senior programs including Shared Housing, transportation for seniors and the Senior Advisory Committee."

The Award will be presented to Freeholder Deputy Director Susan Zellman at the annual LeadingAge New Jersey 80th Annual Meeting on June 1, 2011, in Somerset, New Jersey.